Tooth extraction is a common procedure, and can be done for a whole host of reasons.
As part of oral surgery treatments here at Highland View, tooth extractions are usually completed for health reasons and can prevent the development of gum disease.
Here are the most common reasons for oral surgery in Essex.
Tooth decay
The main aim of all modern dentistry is preventing tooth loss, and helping patients maintain healthy oral hygiene.
However, if a tooth cannot be saved because of tooth decay or damage, extraction is often the recommended option.
Removing the problem that’s causing the bacteria creates much healthier gums, reducing the risk of infections.
Wisdom tooth extraction
The most common reason why patients undergo oral surgery in Essex is because their wisdom teeth are causing problems, pain and infections.
This usually happens when the wisdom teeth don’t have enough room in the jaw to fully develop, the growth is impacted by surrounding teeth, gum or bone that cannot support the tooth.
Extracting the tooth removes the source of the problem and prevents other issues such as pain, infection, inflammation and decay.
Root canals
Tooth decay often isn’t taken as seriously as it should be. If it isn’t treated, severe infections can develop, affecting the surrounding areas of the jaw.
In the instance of tooth decay, oral surgery in Essex may come in the form of a root canal, tooth extraction, and prescribed medication to treat any infection.
If the patient responds well to the treatment, replacements are often recommended to disguise gaps between teeth.
Straightening treatments
Straightening treatments often include oral surgery in Essex as part of the treatment plan.
Due to the way teeth are moved with braces and Invisalign, the presence of too many teeth can hinder the results, so they often need to be removed if the mouth is overcrowded.
Extracting these teeth prior to fitting braces ensures all teeth are evenly spaced and the final result is achieved in line with the desired result of the patient.
Dental Sedation
Philip, Sanjay and Sarita are highly experienced sedationists and have provided a full range of dental treatments for nervous and phobic patients on referral since 1995. They are members of SAAD and Dental Sedation Teachers Group and between them have taught Sedation and Oral Surgery at the Royal London Hospital, the Royal College of Surgeons and the Highland View. Sanjay is a member of IEGTSSD, the “Independent Expert Group for Training and Standards in Sedation for Dentistry” and has co-authored several publications from this group. Our team of specialists also regularly teach and mentor other dentists in sedation techniques. Sarita has also successfully completed the Diploma in Dental Sedation with a Merit award at Guy’s Hospital (KCL). Our practices fully comply with the stringent criteria set out by the Diploma qualification, Department of Health and by SAAD.
There are very few people who feel completely relaxed when visiting the dentist, whether this is our dentist in Essex or elsewhere. Some may feel a little anxious, some frightened, but others may be so afraid that they only visit the dentist when the pain in their teeth becomes unbearable. Fear of dentistry can turn into a vicious circle as people avoid attending routine check-ups thereby allowing problems to develop until the point when they are in such desperate pain that a visit to the dentist becomes essential.
There are also circumstances in which patients, who happily tolerate dental treatment fully awake, may benefit from dental sedation in Essex eg, the removal of impacted wisdom teeth.
Life after oral surgery in Essex
After undergoing oral surgery in Essex, it usually takes a few days to feel normal again. As it’s performed under anaesthetic, you should avoid hot food and drinks until the feeling comes back, so you don’t accidentally burn your mouth.
Within a week to 10 days, the area should be healed and pain-free. However, if you are still experiencing discomfort, you should contact your dentist to identify the cause.
Teeth can be replaced, in the form of dental implants, dental bridges, or dentures, often following oral surgery. Not only can a tooth replacement procedure disguise the missing teeth, but it can also give you a brighter, whiter, and much more even smile.
The best option for you will be recommended to you by your dentist, based on how many teeth have been removed and your overall gum health.
Book oral surgery in Essex with Highland View
If you’re interested in oral surgery in Essex, you’re in the right place.
Our excellent dental team has earned 5* reviews for our treatment and our ability to transform smiles while creating a comfortable environment, allowing patients to feel as safe and relaxed as possible.
Whether it’s a one-off visit for oral surgery in Essex, or for regular dental work and maintenance, our dentists believe in preventative care which means we work with you to ensure your oral health, smile and confidence lasts.
To book an appointment today, call us on 01708 707 050 (Hornchurch) or 01702 553 535 (Leigh-on-Sea), or fill out our online enquiry form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible with more information and our available appointment times.